Q. My crape myrtle has what looks like baby powder
on it. What should I do?

A. The powdery appearance of your crape myrtle leaves is typical of
infection with the fungal disease powdery mildew. It can be controlled with
several fungicides such as benomyl (Systemic Fungicide or bayleton (Fungaway).
Follow package directions for spray intervals for best results. Pruning to
thin out the shrub and increase air circulation will help reduce the severity
of the disease.